Getting to the heart of pleural effusions: A case study

Abstract

Knowledge of the underlying physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms enables the NP to obtain an accurate and comprehensive assessment, establishes a differential diagnosis, and provides the timely initial management necessary to optimize patient care outcomes.

Diagnostic Snapshot: Dyspnea in the Oncology Patient

“…The pleural effusion may be categorized as either transudative or exudative. Transudative pleural effusions are essentially caused by protein-free fluid leaking from the capillaries into the pleural space, while exudative pleural effusions are concentrated with proteins, and may be caused by drug toxicity, inflammation, or blockage of blood vessels (Mertin, Sawatzky, & Diehl-Jones, 2009).…”